ALTUZARRA RESORT 2013

We all know that Joseph Altuzarra is a fairly new designer to the scene, however we are already beginning to see signature elements to his work. For Resort 2013 (as well as the past two collections Altuzarra has produced), we saw cultural references act as a strong motif. A contradiction between tribes and city dwellers, culture and modernity, restriction and movement. There was a huge gypsy/ tribal reference in this collection, with the ikat print being used on loose tapered trousers and balloon sleeved dresses. These ethnic, traditional styles were juxtaposed with modern lines and cuts of the tailoring, peplum waists and structural layering. One of my favourite garments was the cascading asymmetric draped dress in a warm sand colour. I feel that this garment captured the atmosphere and connotations of the collection in the strongest way. (the almost DIY, draped wrapping technique of the sand section which had a very nomadic feel to it, which was contrasted heavily by the simplicity and mass produced nature of a simple v neck. A craft which has been passed through generations vs industrial manufacturing. Finally, all brought together by a nude waist belt) 

I feel that this is a really strong collection by Altuzarra, and he manages to make cultural collections without having a costume feel too them. The way that the garments in this collection were layered created a harmonious balance of 2 completely different worlds and yet the garments all complimented each other. Stunning collection.

Photos taken from HERE
Photos edited and text written by Azzastumbldrambles

Michael Angel Fall 2012

Being the true textile lover that i am, as soon as i saw this collection my heart literally jumped out (ok not literally). I am in utter love with the sophisticated and controlled way in which colour has been incorporated into the designs. The exotic tropic prints have been created digitally with symmetry and the colours used are vibrants but also have restriction too them. They have been edited in a way that creates a high contrast and the highlight is very strong. The prints create a sense of paradise yet still give off a sense of eeriness. Another element of the collection which i am loving is the billowing proportions of the knitwear and outerwear. It creates warmth when paired against the boldness of the prints.In terms of length, the garments are very modest and extremely modern with sharp cuts and volume being present. I am in total love with this collection and its when i see prints like these that i know WHY i want to be a designer.

Images taken from HERE

Images edited & text written by azzastumbldrambles

Givenchy Fall 2011

Givenchy is fast becoming one of my most awaited shows every season. Ever since i saw those gothic gowns at Spring 2007 Couture, i knew it would continue to be a hit with me. Oh my goodness, words can not describe my love for the Fall 2011 for Givenchy by Tisci. It put a smile on my face when i saw it, there were humuorous elements combined with the signature darkness of any Givenchy collection. Riccardo Tisci definately was paying homage to the 1950’s, with traditional rounded cat eye glasses and pencil skirt. These elements combined with the feline and jungle prints and sexy sheer panels make me come to the conclusion of “50’s housewife on the prowl”…would you agree?
Something that really stood out to me in this collection was the beautiful colour palette, mixing dark and muted tones with the saturated yellows, greens and purples, it was extremely playful. My words really can not do this collection enough justice, if i could…i would buy the whole collection to just sit and stare at it in amazement.

Photos All Courtesy of Style.Com
All Givenchy Fall 2011 

Rodarte Spring Summer 2011

This collection is a very personal one to the Mulleavy sisters. Looking back at their past, where they grew up and documenting it in garment form. The wood prints reminiscent of the trees and furniture, blue and white florals similar to those found on olden painted china and porcelain. There was also a contrast between harsh and soft, powerful wood prints on delicate silks against embossed chunky leathers. There was also a huge organic feel to this collection, through the colour palette and subtle natural, subtle textures on the fabrics. The layering of the garments also worked extremely well, and the sisters showcased some extremely intricate cuts and new shapes. I have grown really fond of this collection recently and the message behind the collection is a lovely one.

Erdem Fall 2011: Details

Just take a look at this image if you want to know what my favourite collection of Fall 2011 was. I am a sucker for prints, and this collection was like a whole gallery full of em, mix them with subtle textures, jewel tones and a variety of luxury fabrics…if thats not a recipe for success, i dont know what is!

Photo’s Courtesy of Style.com
All Erdem Fall 2011

Alexander McQueen Resort 2012. This was another great collection for the Resort season. My favourite part of the collection was definately the first half, which was full of exquisite tailoring with utilitarian and military aspects very prominent. There was also some stunning shapes in the collection, and the colour palette in the first half was very organic which was rather interesting. In my personal opinion, i feel as if the second half was no where near as strong. Usually, i am such a fan of romance and softness in a collection, but this time i felt as if there was a bit of repetition with previous McQueen collections designed by Burton. Resort 2011 was immense and in comparison…i dont think this collection as a whole was as strong. I think we want something new, rather than gold detailing on complex, voluminous bottoms. The daywear side of this collection was superb though….very good.

Photos courtesy of Style.com